Safari and Cruise in Southern Africa: the Chobe River Experience

Imagine waking at dawn in a private lodge deep in the Botswanan savannah, as a herd of elephants makes its way slowly towards the river in the distance… Then, a few hours later, you glide silently across the waters of the Chobe aboard a small boat, just a few metres from hippos wallowing in the shallows and crocodiles basking on the bank. Combining safari and cruise in Southern Africa means living two adventures in one — and the Chobe is the perfect place to do it.

This one-of-a-kind safari-cruise itinerary blends the best of both worlds: nights in a private lodge in the heart of the African wilderness, jeep excursions deep into the savannah, visits to Botswanan villages and towns, and several days of river cruising on the Chobe aboard an intimate small ship. On the water, you get closer to wildlife than almost anywhere else on earth — elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo and a wealth of birdlife come to drink at the river's edge, completely indifferent to your presence.

Chobe National Park, in Botswana, is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa — a visual and emotional experience of rare intensity, still largely undiscovered by European travellers.

Two specialist companies offer this exceptional safari and cruise circuit in Africa: AmaWaterways and CroisiEurope, both renowned for their expertise in African river cruising and their deep knowledge of the terrain.

When is the Best Time for a Safari Cruise in Southern Africa?

Botswana and the Chobe can be visited all year round, with pleasant temperatures in every season. The dry season, from June to October, is nevertheless ideal for wildlife watching: vegetation thins out, animals gather around watering holes and navigation conditions are at their best. From November to May, the green season brings lush landscapes, newborn animals in the savannah and often more attractive prices — an excellent option for those looking to travel off-peak.

Frequently asked questions:

What is the difference between a classic safari and a safari cruise?

A classic safari takes place entirely by jeep from a land-based lodge. The Chobe safari cruise combines both: jeep excursions into the savannah AND a river cruise on the Chobe, allowing you to observe wildlife from two completely different angles — and to access areas impossible to reach by road.

Will I really see wildlife up close?

Yes — and that is precisely what makes the Chobe so magical. Animals come naturally to drink at the river's edge, allowing exceptionally close observation in their natural environment without disturbing them. Elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo and a wealth of birdlife are all part of the experience.

Where do Southern Africa safari cruise itineraries depart from?

Itineraries generally depart from Johannesburg or Kasane, in Botswana. From the UK, we arrange your return flights included in your package — contact us for a personalised quote.

Is the safari cruise suitable for families and children?

Yes! It is an extraordinary experience for children, who live their first safari as a real adventure. Watching elephants, hippos and crocodiles from the boat or the jeep is a magical moment that stays with them for a lifetime. Both AmaWaterways and CroisiEurope welcome families on board and adapt the programme so that adults and children alike can make the most of the experience.

Discover our Southern Africa safari cruise itineraries and live an adventure quite unlike anything you have ever experienced.

*Photo Credit: CroisiEurope & Amawaterways